Overview
The calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) is a Class C G-protein coupled receptor which senses extracellular levels of calcium ions. It is primarily expressed in the parathyroid gland, the renal tubules of the kidney, pancreatic islets and the brain. In the parathyroid gland, it controls calcium homeostasis by regulating the release of parathyroid hormone (PTH). In the kidney, it has an inhibitory effect on the re-absorption of calcium, potassium, sodium, and water depending on which segment of the tubule is being activated. CaSR has regulatory role in insulin secretion, adhesion and beta-cell proliferation in pancreatic islets.